Crimetracker: Sheriff: Couple collected cash for bogus babies' burial

ROGERSVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Hawkins County authorities say a couple asking for donations to bury their unborn twins were working a scam.

Irvin Henry Murrell III and Courtney Ladawn Murrell are each charged with creating the false impression of death and theft over $500. Courtney Murrell also faces theft under $500.

According to the Kingsport Times-News, Irvin Murrell showed a photo of two dead babies to gain sympathy and Courtney Murrell showed an ultrasound image.

A Hawkins County Sheriff's investigator found the husband's co-workers took up a cash collection for him and he also received a $250 check at work. Irvin Murrell also took off bereavement time, supposedly for the funeral, and was paid $270 in salary for it.

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